David Savage

David Savage: Australia’s First Civilian Casualty from The War in Afghanistan

It is not just military personnel who serve, with thousands of civilians having been embedded in the Australian Defence Force on operations at home and overseas.

One such person is David Savage AM, who was Australia’s first civilian casualty of the Afghanistan war when in 2012, he was almost killed by a child suicide bomber.

David’s story not only highlights the important contributions and sacrifices of civilians who work alongside the Australian Defence Force but also shares a message of resilience and hope.


This episode is funded by the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program

Subscribe

Keep up to date with upcoming events and program offerings with Soldier On by subscribing to our newsletter. 

Further reading

2025 Defence Force Industry Award finalist announcement
Soldier On Honoured for Exceptional Contributions in Australian Defence Industry Awards 2025
Soldier On has been named as a finalist in two prestigious categories at the Australian Defence Industry...
MC at Remembrance Day
A Mentor’s Mark: Lessons in Leadership with Peter Whitelaw
Soldier On mentor Peter Whitelaw understands the career transition challenges veterans can face and has...
Ross Manuel (1)
Ross Manuel: Carrying the Legacy Forward
Meet Ross Manuel, a proud supporter, podcaster, and passionate military historian who honours Australia’s...